List Wrangler
“I’m going to be a chocolate maker …”
I am reminded of these words spoken by my son, many years ago, when contemplating what he might do when he grows up.
Lower down on his choices was “ … then I might do what you and Dad do …”
Today, as I wrote the words WRANGLE LIST at the top of said list, it reminded me that once upon a time my son thought that what we did for work was write emails, and talk to people.
You forgot to add wrangle lists, kiddo.
Of course, in some ways, what he observed is true.
Much of what we do is, what I often term, the work around the work. Much of it is necessary to make the ‘real work’ happen. Much of it we do through habit, without thought and reflection, and without recognising the value of it.
Focusing on which elements of the ‘non-real work’ can be reduced has merit. As does a realisation that some parts have an important role in our overall work rhythm. The work around the work can be as useful and meaningful as the ‘real work’.
So while we may all aspire to the dream of being a chocolate maker, some days we must be content with our role as list wrangler, don’t you agree.